Controlled drugs licences
What are controlled drugs?
Controlled drugs are substances that may or may not be used for medical treatment, but their possession, use and supply are subject to legal restrictions to prevent them causing harm, being misused, or being obtained illegally.
Controlled drugs are subject to control under the Misuse of Drugs legislation, and licences may be required for their production, possession or supply. Every summer, a request is issued for information on these licences for risk management purposes.
University research schools require licences for either:
a) The possession or supply or production of controlled drugs as listed in Schedule 1 drugs.
b) The production of controlled drugs as listed in Schedules 2, 3, 4 Part I, 4 Part II or 5.
More information on licences for controlled drugs is available from the Home Office.
Destruction/Disposal of controlled drugs
The destruction or disposal of controlled drugs should only take place in the presence of, and in accordance with any directions given by, an authorized person. If a waste disposal company is to be used, you are required to ask them for a copy of their “Home Office controlled drugs licence” for your records. (NOTE: they might be authorized to collect hazardous chemical waste but they require a specific licence to collect controlled drugs)
Closure statement
If you no longer require a controlled drugs licence, you need to submit a closure statement to the Home Office.
If you need to apply for a licence, or need help with disposal of controlled drugs, or help with the closure statement contact the University Regulatory Compliance Officer (RCO).